Oporto Sandeman Ruby

The Oporto Sandeman Ruby is a legendary fortified wine that embodies the rich tradition, mysticism, and innovative spirit of one of the most iconic and renowned wineries in the world, founded in 1790 by the visionary George Sandeman.

This fortified wine is the direct descendant of the first ruby ports that the firm exported at the end of the 18th century to the ports of London, maintaining intact its vibrant, robust, and deeply fruity character that made it a favorite of the Georgian era. Crafted in the prestigious Douro Valley region (Douro DOC) in northern Portugal, the world's first demarcated vineyard, this Port is produced from a meticulous selection of indigenous grape varieties perfectly adapted to the schist soils and the extreme climate of the area, among which Tinta Amarela, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, and Touriga Franca stand out.

The grapes are rigorously harvested by hand in vineyards arranged on steep terraces that drop vertically towards the Douro River. The winemaking process follows the strictest traditional method: after destemming and gentle crushing, the must ferments under controlled temperatures with intense skin maceration to extract maximum color, structured tannins, and aromatic precursors.

At the optimal moment, when the perfect balance of sweetness is reached, fermentation is halted by adding high-quality neutral wine spirit (grape alcohol), which preserves the natural sugars of the fruit and grants it its characteristic alcoholic strength and smoothness. Subsequently, the wine ages in large oak wood vats in the historic and shadowy cellars of Vila Nova de Gaia.

This controlled aging in wood softens its tannic structure without taking away an ounce of the freshness and fruity power of its youth. The result is a Ruby Port of exceptional consistency, round and balanced, ideal both for those starting out in the fascinating world of fortified wines and for the most demanding palates looking for a timeless classic.

Tasting Note of Oporto Sandeman Ruby:

Visual Phase: It presents a bright, clean ruby red color of medium-high depth, with garnet flashes on the rim that denote its youth and vigor.

Olfactory Phase: On the nose, it stands out for its intensity and aromatic cleanliness. It releases rich notes of fresh red fruits, ripe plums, and wild strawberries, accompanied by subtle spicy nuances and a very elegant balsamic background.

Gustatory Phase: On the palate, it is flavorful, round, and with a warm yet balanced attack. The flavors of fresh plum and berries intertwine with soft tannins and a well-integrated sweetness. Its finish is persistent, fruity, and very harmonious.

Technical Specifications: Alcoholic strength: 19.5% vol. Varieties: Tinta Amarela, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Touriga Franca. Residual sugar: ~100 g/L.

Value Points

Historical Heritage: Inspired by George Sandeman's original 1790 recipe, maintaining a classic and robust profile.

Exceptional Terroir: Crafted with selected indigenous grapes from the terraced vineyards of the Douro Valley.

Traditional Aging: Aged in large oak vats in Vila Nova de Gaia to soften its structure while preserving the fruit.

Quality Icon: Backed by the mythical figure of the 'Don de Sandeman', a global symbol of mystery and winemaking excellence.

Service Protocol

Recommended serving temperature: Between 14ºC and 16ºC.

Does not require prior decanting. It is recommended to serve in a traditional Port glass or tasting glass. Once opened, it keeps in optimal conditions for 4 weeks if kept in a cool place.

Ideal pairing: Excellent as an appetizer served slightly chilled, or to accompany intense and creamy blue cheeses (such as Gorgonzola or Roquefort), dark chocolate desserts, truffles, and red fruit tarts.